Coquitlam RCMP are sounding a warning to anyone looking at stepping onto the Coquitlam Crunch trail after the detachment received several reports of a cougar in the area Friday morning.
“On September 11, 2020, at approximately 11:30 a.m., numerous calls were received that a cougar was spotted crossing the trail in the Panorama Rd and Eagle Mtn Drive area,” wrote Sgt. Paul Vadik in a written statement.
The BC Conservation Service has been notified and Coquitlam bylaw officers are assisting by erecting signs in the area.
The Coquitlam Crunch is a popular hiking destination in the Tri-Cities. In recent months, it's seen a significant uptick in traffic as people from across Metro Â鶹´«Ã½Ó³»look to get outside during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the city.
Two cougars were spotted in the last week of August in Port Moody’s Bert Flinn Park, to residents in the area, especially those walking small dogs that might be considered as prey to the big cats.
The following tips are provided to keep people safe:
• Keep dogs on a leash and under control at all times.
• Be alert and make noise when walking in forested settings.
• If you do encounter a cougar, never run. Instead, turn and face the animal, use jackets and backpacks to look as big as possible, and back away slowly.
• If the cougar appears to be stalking or following you, yell and throw objects such as rocks or sticks.
• Report any encounters or sightings in an urban area to the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277.
Find out more about B.C. cougars .
— With files from Diane Strandberg
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